A kimono is traditional Japanese wear known for its beautiful and iconic patterns and full-length robes. It has a long history and cultural significance to its people. The making of a kimono is considered an art form in Japan. Various processes take place before we can see the beautiful brocade patterns and intricate details in the garment. Several artists have tried to reinvent the techniques it takes to create kimonos like those from The Kubota Collection. Because of these artists’ efforts, there are different types of kimonos in existence today, and each of these kimonos is worn for specific occasions such as weddings, festivals, and tea ceremonies.

Although they are beautiful, the effort it takes to put one on is difficult and sometimes you’ll need outside help. But, there is a way to conquer such predicaments. Down below we have made a quick and easy 7-step guide to help you get your kimono on by yourself. Follow them to the letter to pull off your kimono look perfectly.

Here is the step by step process:

1. Put on the juban The Juban is a thin white slip garment that covers everything above the knee. It works like an undershirt for the kimono. Wrap the juban around yourself all the while making sure that you are still comfortable. Then, tie the strings of the juban together at the right side of your body.
2. Put on the nagajuban. The nagajuban is a robe similarly shaped like the kimono. It is usually just a plain white robe, but it can be as intricately designed as the kimono itself. It is the main outer garment, and the collar of the nagajuban will be the only thing visible after putting on the kimono.

Fold your left side over your right and keep the nagajuban in place with a koshi-himo, a short length of under-sash.

3. Put on the kimono.  The top layer should be the left panel of the kimono. Make sure that everything is symmetrical, even and centred including the sleeves and the back seam. Adjust the nagajuban to let the slip collar peek out under the kimono collar.
4. Adjust the hem. Pull the kimono up until the hem is just above your feet. The kimono must end at the ankle and be aligned correctly.
5. Tie the excess material out of the way. The excess material should be tied securely by another koshi himo belt around your waist. Tie the belt at the front and straighten the excess material The koshi himo belt must be hidden under the excess material.
6. Tie your date-jime. The date-jime is a wide under-sash used to secure the kimono. Tie the date-jime under the bust leaving the overlapping kimono fabric visible below.
7. Tie in your obi makura in place with an obi. Make sure that you tied the obi correctly, and it aligns perfectly at the centre.

After completing this simple seven-step guide, you are ready to step out into the world and show off your kimono outfit.